New York Knicks: Pros and Cons of Hiring David Blatt

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Dec 28, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James walks past head coach David Blatt against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena. The Cavaliers defeated the Suns 101-97. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Con: The Carmelo-LeBron Factor

As previously alluded to, David Blatt had a strong working relationship with his players. The likes of Kyrie Irving, Kevin Love, Iman Shumpert, and Tristan Thompson all spoke at length about how good of a leader Blatt was in the process of proving himself to be with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Unfortunately, there was one player with whom Blatt had a somewhat abrasive relationship, and he just so happens to be one of New York Knicks star Carmelo Anthony’s closest friends.

Throughout Blatt’s tenure in Cleveland, the narrative existed that there was a rift between he and LeBron James. Despite their working well enough together to reach the 2015 NBA Finals, they never seemed to consistently get on the same page.

Anthony is not James’ sheep or disciple, but their close friendship could create an uphill battle in the development of his relationship with Blatt.

Anthony has carried himself like a true professional in New York, and there’s a better chance than not that he’d do just fine with Blatt as head coach. He wants to win, and if Phil Jackson decides that Blatt is the man who can help the team do so, Anthony should be just as adaptable as the coach allegedly is.

On paper, however, this tricky situation is, to some extent, a con.

Next: Pro

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